Frequently Asked Questions

Waxing is the most common hair-removal technique used today. In this treatment, warm wax adheres to the hair and is pulled off in strips. There are two types of wax: hard and soft. Hard wax is usually better for more delicate areas like the face, underarms, and bikini because it is easier on the skin. Soft wax is good for the coarser hair on the legs, arms, back, and chest.

Waxing reduces hair growth when performed at regular, 4 - 6 week intervals. While shaving crops the hair even with the skin, waxing pulls it out by the root, so it grows back softer, finer, and thinner. Waxing is great for those who are tired of the hassle of shaving several times per week— the more you wax, the less hair grows back. Waxing should not be performed if you have particularly sensitive skin because waxing pulls off a couple of layers of skin (along with hair) when it is removed and can cause tenderness and swelling. In addition, some medications will cause the skin to react badly to waxing. Don’t wax if you’re taking Retin-A, Accutane, or any type of acne prescription.

Let the hair you want to have waxed grow out to about a quarter-inch above the skin. If hairs are left too short, the wax won’t be able to adhere to them strongly enough to pull them out. Also, refrain from taking a shower or bath before the treatment because soaking the hair will soften it, allowing it to break more easily and making waxing less effective.

Usually, a preconditioning lotion for waxing is first applied to the area to be waxed. Next, a thin layer of cornstarch is applied as a protective barrier to the skin. Then hot wax is spread onto the skin. When the wax dries, the strip of wax is quickly removed. You may feel some discomfort when the wax is pulled off, but relaxing will help alleviate the sensation. The more you experience waxing, the less it hurts. Some suggest taking a couple of ibuprofen before treatment to reduce pain and swelling.

Many people are familiar with bikini waxing, which removes pubic and leg hair that would otherwise show when a bathing suit is worn. Brazilian waxing got its start with the daring bathing suits worn by both sexes on Brazil’s
sunny beaches. Brazilian waxing is now common practice in the United States and isn’t just for use with bathing suits, but is preferred by many simply for the sleek feeling a good waxing provides. The treatment involves waxing
off all frontal pubic and labial hair for women and all genital hair for men, including that on the penis and scrotum. Some clients request hair on the inner and outer buttocks be waxed off also.

Be ready to fill out a questionnaire and describe what medications and skin care products you are using. If you are close to or on your menstrual period, you should mention this to your licensed esthetician. Try to arrive relaxed and ready to bare all. There is no modest way to receive a Brazilian wax, but your esthetician is a professional and your dignity as a person will be respected in the treatment room.

It helps if you have had waxing treatments on other body parts so you know what to expect. You will be covered from the waist up and will lie on your back first. The longer hair may be trimmed to make applying wax easier. Obviously, there is discomfort associated with having hair pulled out from the follicles—your esthetician will work to keep the discomfort to a minimum. If you choose to have the buttocks waxed, some estheticians will suggest you kneel on all fours on the treatment table or lay flat on your stomach.

It’s important to care for the waxed area properly after treatment to prevent ingrown hairs, breakouts, or other reactions. Avoid hot baths and hot tubs for first 24 - 48 hours following your wax service.  Exfoliation, using a pumice stone or exfoliating gloves with a bath gel, will help keep this skin clear and less prone to blemishes. Avoid using a bar soap because it leaves a film on the body that could cause ingrown hairs. For breakout zones, defined as the face, back, and chest, use a more gentle exfoliant and an anti-breakout lotion. Do not go in the sun or use tanning booths directly after waxing, especially while the skin is still red from treatment, and only apply gentle moisturizers 24 - 48 hours after treatment. Try to avoid products with harsh chemicals, perfumes, or dyes. If you decide you want to continue waxing regularly, waxing at approximately 4 - 6 week intervals is recommended to reduce discomfort on follow-up visits. You’ll need at least a quarter-inch of regrown hair to have a successful waxing.